Functions of the Skeletal System


1.) Support- Provides a framework for the body by supporting soft tissues and providing points of attachment for skeletal muscles.

2.) Protection- Internal organs are protected from injury by the skeleton. Ex: Brain is protected by the skull

3.) Movement- Skeletal muscles attach to bones as muscle contracts it produces movement.

4.) Mineral storage and homeostasis- Bones store minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. The bones can then release them as needed to maintain homeostasis.

5.) Site of Blood Cell Production:
Red Bone Marrow- is a connective tissue in certain bones that make blood cells.
Hemopoiesis- process of making blood cells

6.) Storage of Energy:
Yellow Bone Marrow- primarily adipose (fatty) tissue and serves as energy storage for the body

Video

6 Types of Bones


1.) Long Bones
- longer than they are wide.
- Made of two parts (shaft) (extremities)
- Arms, legs, fingers and toes

2.) Short Bones
- Length and width about equal
- Ex: wrist and ankle bones

3.) Flat Bones
- thin and flat
- serves as protection and site of muscle attachment
- Ex: cranial bones, sternum, ribs

4.) Irregular Bones
- complex shapes that cannot be classified into any previous categories
- Ex: vertebrae and facial bones

5.) Sutural Bones
- small bones that form between joints of cranial bones, number varies from person to person

6.) Seasamoid Bones
- small bones in tendons in areas of high pressure
- Ex: patella and in the wrist